The world of musical theatre has been shaken by the news of Ben Lewis's passing. The Australian actor, renowned for his powerful performances in The Phantom of the Opera and Love Never Dies, died at the age of 46 after a courageous battle with bowel cancer. Lewis's death was announced by his close friend, Australian TV host Todd Woodbridge, on Instagram, sparking an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow performers.
Ben Lewis was celebrated for his commanding stage presence and deep voice, which captivated audiences across the globe. His breakout role as the Phantom in Love Never Dies, the sequel to The Phantom of the Opera, marked a significant milestone in his career. Lewis's legacy extends beyond his performances; he was also remembered as a kind and caring individual who mentored many in the industry.
Personal Struggles and Support
Lewis faced personal challenges alongside his professional success. His wife, Melle Stewart, a performer herself, suffered a life-changing stroke in 2021, reportedly linked to the Oxford AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine. Ben became her primary caregiver while dealing with his own health issues. Despite these challenges, the couple received overwhelming support from friends and fans, with a GoFundMe campaign set up to aid them during their difficult times.
Tributes and Legacy
The news of Lewis's passing has prompted heartfelt tributes from the musical theatre community. Andrew Lloyd Webber, the creator of
The Phantom of the Opera, paid an emotional tribute to Lewis, highlighting his impact on the world of musical theatre. Fans have taken to social media to express their grief and admiration for Lewis's talent, using hashtags like #BenLewisPhantomLegacy to share memories and clips of his performances.
Ben Lewis leaves behind a legacy of incredible performances and a lasting impact on those who knew him. His dedication to his craft and his family will be remembered for years to come.
Sources
1. Actor Ben Lewis's Cause of Death Explained - Distractify
2. Ben Lewis Death: Phantom Actors Illness and Fan Tributes
3. Ben Lewis, 'Phantom of the Opera' star, passes away at 46 after ...
4. Editorial — Blog — Ben Lewis
5. Love Never Dies Star Ben Lewis Has Died at 46 | Playbill
6. What is FidoCure? | Ben Lewis Deep Dive - DogCancer.com
7. Tributes to Phantom and Company performer Ben Lewis
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